WARSAW, Poland (Enmaeya News) — A study from SWPS University examines the connection between climate change-related distress and mental health, finding that while many people express concern over climate impacts such as floods, droughts, and melting glaciers, this distress does not directly cause mental disorders.

The research, which explored whether climate-related distress contributes to conditions like depression, found that generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) plays a key role in determining whether people experience mental health symptoms related to climate change, such as nightmares, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.

Dr. Marzena Cypryańska-Nezlek, lead researcher, clarified that climate-related distress is more strongly linked to anxiety than to depression. "It is generalized anxiety, not depression, that is associated with climate change-related symptoms of mental disorders," she said.

The study also revealed that only a small percentage—5.3%—of participants reported significant disruptions to their daily lives due to climate concerns, suggesting that while climate distress is widespread, it does not always lead to a mental health crisis. However, those already prone to anxiety are at a higher risk of developing climate-related symptoms.

The findings underscore the need for improved mental health support and coping strategies for individuals experiencing climate distress, particularly those vulnerable to anxiety. Researchers call for further studies to better understand the mental health effects of climate change and develop more targeted interventions.